Summit of Mt. Tamalpais Loop

Mt. Tam is a large park with plenty of amazing viewpoints, but the East routes and the East Peak are best for sunsets. Once you're at the top, it's an amazing spot to view a large number of Marin trails, which can help you can get a head start on planning your next adventure. At 2,570 feet, this is the highest point on Mount Tamalpais. The good news is that the path to get there is pretty easy and partially paved. Due to the short distance of the Plankwalk Trail, it's usually more scenic and a little more fun to do the Verna Dunshee loop first.

As you start the Dunshee trail, you'll notice that's there are two options at the start. There's a switchback path or a set of stairs to get you going on the trail. Choose whichever you're more comfortable with. Along the trail, enjoy the views of Northern Marin, San Francisco, and the East Bay. After about 0.6 miles, this trail will come full circle at the parking lot and allow you to head uphill and jump onto the Plankwalk.

After roughly a quarter of a mile, you'll reach the summit and fire lookout. From here, spend as much time as you'd like and then head back to the car the way you came.

If you're riding or hiking all the way up, it can be a bit of a grind to get to the peak, but it's definitely worth it once you catch the sunset. If you choose to ride, you can head up E. Ridgecrest Blvd from Pan Toll Road. If you're hiking, jump on the Matt Davis Trail to the Nora Trail to Old Railroad Grade, finally heading up on Fern Creek Trail to the East Peak parking area.

If it's a nice day and you want to eat outside, you can head to the Mountain Home Inn for a burger and a beer. Just as a disclaimer, it is a little pricey.